they say that increase is due to job loss, the economy, high cost of housing, and a number of other issues. the agency said volunteers are essential and helping them fill the needs. >> different members of our organization are used to give them back mentoring and we have to do something as a collective group to put the university of maryland out there and show we care about the community. >> reporter: the food bank distribute -- distributes 500,000 pops of food each week and they could not help the thousands in need if they didn't get the help they need from the volunteers. >> to be able to give something of our time to help people who are in need is what is critical. and you see it every day as you drive to work. you see people and you your going to work. you need to take the time to volunteer and give something to the community. >> reporter: that was wisdom martin. we want you to know that this is really, really important to us, and we would really love your help. join us this friday at the following giant food likes in brentwood, montrose crossing in rockville, greenbriar and the hyatts